Montgomery County schools roll back stricter quarantine policy

Montgomery County Public Schools changes quarantine policy

Montgomery County Public Schools announced that they are softening their quarantine policy following criticism from parents and after 1,700 students were sent home the first week of school.

ROCKVILLE, Md. - Montgomery County Public Schools on Tuesday rolled back their stricter COVID-19 quarantine policy.

Under the policy adopted Tuesday, students will only be subject to quarantine if they test positive, or come in contact with a person who has tested positive for the virus.

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Last week, school officials said they will begin using COVID-19 rapid tests in all schools as they try to keep more students in the classroom amid a nationwide surge in coronavirus cases.

Many Montgomery County parents have been frustrated that entire classes were being sent home when only one student showed a single symptom – even if they haven't tested positive for COVID-19.

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"The use of these tests, in conjunction with the other safety measures we have in place, will hopefully help us keep more students in school," said MCPS Interim Superintendent Monifa McKnight.. "We will be receiving further guidance from DHHS on the implementation of this rapid testing program and will provide information to you as quickly as possible."

Tuesday's meeting came as Montgomery County searches for their next chief health officer to replace Dr. Travis Gayles.

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